Open Collections

Abstract

Erosion and water management present significant challenges in reclaiming post-mining landforms, particularly in areas with steep slopes and high runoff potential. Effective closure landform design must address the root causes of erosion, mitigate future risks, develop sustainable drainage, and promote long- term ecosystem resilience. Despite extensive research on erosion mitigation and drainage systems, integrated landform and water management design for steep terrains (greater than 40% slope gradients) remains limited. This paper presents a case study of a mountaintop coal refuse dump with slope gradients exceeding 50%, where closure design aimed to re-establish drainage and hillslope features to function similarly to a natural system. Located in southern British Columbia, the site has historically experienced severe soil sloughing and erosion, forming gullies up to 15 m deep. The nature-based solution included re- grading the plateau and steep hillslope, developing a drainage design that utilizes the existing gully, and incorporating natural forms to blend with the surrounding landscape.